Many don’t like to think about dental trauma, but like any other first aid, knowledge…
What to Expect At A Dental Cleaning

Dental advice usually includes a reminder to keep up your dental cleanings every 6 months. This important twice yearly appointment may prevent other visits to your dental office. It can also be a relaxing catch up with your favorite dental staff members, capped off by smooth clean teeth. So what exactly can you expect at a dental cleaning?
An Exam
Both the hygenist, and the dentist may have a look at your teeth, gums, and mouth. The hygienist may look first. One thing you can expect at a dental cleaning, is that your hygienist may use a mirror and other tools to complete your exam, and the dentist may follow later during the appointment to look in, and do their own exam. Part of the exam may include an x-ray, which is normally completed once a year. This can help the dentist get a better look than an exam alone can provide, and aid in preventative care and treatment plans, helping to catch things early, preventing more involved treatments later.
A Good Clean
The hygienist may clean your teeth using a gritty toothpaste and several different tools. There are several ways you can help yourself relax during the cleaning. One thing you can expect at a dental cleaning is time to relax and sit back. Bringing your own music can be a one source of relaxation. Taking a nap or chatting with your hygienist in between tasks can also be a pleasant way to pass the time. Your hygienist may also give you a professional flossing. This is a good time to ask for tips or tricks for keeping your teeth clean and healthy at home. Your hygienist may be a wealth of information that will help bolster your oral health.
A Consultation
After your exam, cleaning, x-rays, you may consult with your dentist about the results of the exam, and make a treatment plan for any specific needs you may have. You can expect at a dental cleaning that you will have some face time with your dentist. Take this time to ask your dentist any questions about your situation and needs. They may be able to help you determine the answer to any questions you may have from choosing a toothpaste, to referring you to an orthodontist or other dental specialist if you are in need of one.
Call our Jacksonville Dental Office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.


Dr. Jordan Cooper is from Jacksonville, AR. His father is Dr. James Cooper, a Jonesboro, AR native and practicing dentist of 39 years and his mother, Tracy Cooper, is a dental hygienist from Little Rock. Dr. Cooper graduated high school from Central Arkansas Christian, after which he entered at the University of Arkansas as a Chancellor’s Scholar in 1998.
Dr. David Cole is a graduate from the University of Arkansas, receiving his degree in 2016, and is a huge Razorback fan! He then went to dental school at the University of Tennessee where he received his D.D.S. in 2021. He looks forward to getting to know the Central Arkansas area, and serving his community!
Dr. Rasmussen is a Hot Springs native who graduated from the University of Central Arkansas in 2017 (Go Bears). After receiving his D.D.S from The University of Tennessee in 2021, he is looking forward to serving the central Arkansas community and the wonderful people who live here.

Dr. James Cooper was born in Jonesboro, Arkansas. He studied at the University of New Mexico and graduated from dental school from the University of Missouri, Kansas City. After 2 years of dental experience with the Army, Dr. Cooper moved to Jacksonville in 1973 to practice dentistry.